KINGSTON and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has alleged that five financial institutions owe it more than $12 million in fees for signs installed at various branches and automated teller machines (ATMs).

Documents seen by the Jamaica Observer show that as at February 2025, one institution owes the KSAMC more than $5 million, while another owes the corporation close to $3.5 million. Three other fincial institutions have outstanding payments of more than $3.5 million.

There were two other financial institutions on the list seen by the Observer but those were cited as being up to date with their payments.

The document stated that the delinquent institutions —which are not being named as they have raised questions about the debts — were invoiced and sent written warnings to pay outstanding sums, but have failed to do so.

In an emailed response to questions from the Observer, KSAMC on Friday stated that, “We have been in dialogue with the financial institutions, as they have sought clarifications on the respective amounts they have been invoiced for and upon which they have committed to make good.”

KSAMC further said, “The revenue department team is actively seeking to complete this exercise to bring these institutions into compliance.

“Of note, this exercise is in relation to signs that are installed at the institutions’ various branches and at ATM outlets, therefore the scope and scale of this initiative does not include billboards, as sign companies are responsible for those. We’ll be sure to provide an update within a week as all these institutions have promised to respond within the next few business days,” the KSAMC said.

Based on information obtained from the official website of KSAMC, permission must be sought from the municipal corporation before putting up signs, billboards and banners for advertising purposes. It is stated on the website that applications must be submitted if people and entities wish to erect shop signs, billboards, banners, party signs, building branding and murals.

When applying, individuals and entities must complete and submit four copies of the application form along with a sketch of the location site showing the surrounding properties, existing sidewalk, roadways, a detailed plan of sign elevation, and they must pay requisite fees.